Name: Stuffed French Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 2 Tablespoons dried minced onion (or freshly diced white onion); 1/2 cup chopped celery; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 can (10 ounces) cream of celery soup (or cream of mushroom or chicken soup); 2 Tablespoons milk; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 ½ cups freshly grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional); 1 loaf French bread

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 65 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that combines crispy, golden French bread with a warm, savory filling that melts in your mouth, then this Stuffed French Bread Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender ground beef, aromatic garlic, and celery mingling with creamy soup and melted cheddar cheese, all lovingly nestled inside a crusty baguette. It’s comfort food at its simplest, yet so full of flavor that every bite feels like a celebration. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something that satisfies your soul, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for a meal arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a single black plate holding a large serving of bright red ground beef, with a coarse texture. Around it, small clear glass bowls hold various ingredients: pale green diced celery on the left, dark brown Worcestershire sauce next to it, a light orange minced garlic paste above, white milk in a bowl next to the garlic, dark green chopped parsley beside the milk, off-white dried minced onion, and a creamy beige bowl of cream of celery soup to the right. At the bottom right, freshly grated cheddar cheese with a bright orange color fills a medium white bowl with a slightly uneven texture. A long, golden-brown French bread loaf with a crispy crust is placed along the bottom left edge. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this recipe, and each one plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty ground beef to the fresh brightness of celery, every component comes together to create a perfectly balanced dish.

1 loaf French bread: Choose a fresh, crusty loaf that can hold all the delicious filling without falling apart.
1 pound lean ground beef: A lean option keeps the filling juicy but not greasy.
2 Tablespoons dried minced onion (or freshly diced white onion): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup chopped celery: Brings a wonderful crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: For that lovely aromatic kick that makes the flavors pop.
1 can (10 ounces) cream of celery soup (or cream of mushroom or chicken soup): The creamy base that binds everything together with silky goodness.
2 Tablespoons milk: Lightens the soup and helps create a luscious texture.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy umami boost that elevates the beef mixture.
3/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony.
1 ½ cups freshly grated cheddar cheese: The melty, cheesy topping everyone loves.
1/2 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): A fresh garnish to brighten the final presentation.

How to Make Stuffed French Bread Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and browning the lean ground beef with your minced or dried onion. This step creates a flavorful base and cooks off any excess fat. Once browned, drain the grease to keep the filling from getting too heavy. Then, add the celery and garlic, cooking just until the celery becomes tender, which keeps a bit of its crunch for texture contrast. Stir in the cream of celery soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, letting the mixture gently heat through—this melds the flavors and creates a creamy, savory sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread for Stuffing

While your filling simmers, slice the French bread loaf lengthwise into two equal halves. Carefully scoop out the soft bread inside, saving the removed bread chunks to stir back into the beef mixture. This clever use of bread not only helps thicken the filling but also soaks up all those delicious juices, making every bite perfectly moist yet hearty.

Step 3: Combine Filling and Bread

Mix the torn bread pieces into the warm beef mixture; this action binds the filling together and gives it a satisfying texture. Now, lay the two bread halves on a baking sheet and spoon the beef and bread mixture evenly into one half of the loaf. This step fills your bread with all that wonderful meaty goodness.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Generously sprinkle the freshly grated cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, then carefully place the second half of the bread loaf on top, creating a sandwich-style whole. Pop the entire creation into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. This baking time lets the cheese melt into a golden blanket of gooey perfection while warming the bread to a crispy, yet tender texture.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

After removing your Stuffed French Bread Recipe from the oven, let it stand for about 5 minutes. This rest period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and keeping all those mouthwatering flavors locked inside.

How to Serve Stuffed French Bread Recipe

A close-up view of a sandwich featuring a white soft hoagie roll sliced open, filled with a layer of cooked ground beef mixed with small pieces of green and white vegetables. On top of the meat, there is a layer of melted bright orange cheese with a shiny texture, sprinkled with small green herb bits. The sandwich is placed on a white marbled surface with some green herb pieces scattered around, and the background is softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly offsets the dish’s richness. For a little extra flair, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a light drizzle of olive oil right before serving to bring out even more depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

This Stuffed French Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that complement without overpowering. Think crisp green salads with tart vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of creamy tomato soup to dip into. These add freshness or warmth for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, cut the stuffed bread into small, manageable slices and serve on a beautiful wooden board with an assortment of pickles, olives, or fresh vegetables. You can also add a ramekin of marinara sauce on the side for dipping, turning this hearty dish into a fun, shareable appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. The Stuffed French Bread Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient meal to enjoy later without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

This dish also freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the whole loaf or sliced portions tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat your stuffed French bread by placing it in a preheated 350° F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the texture less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this stuffed bread?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp provolone for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses also adds exciting complexity.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute. Using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery also enhances the vegetarian version beautifully.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely. Assemble the stuffed bread and keep it covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes it convenient for busy days or entertaining guests.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Removing the soft bread from the center and mixing it into the filling helps prevent sogginess by absorbing excess moisture. Baking at the right temperature until the crust is crisp also maintains textural contrast.

What can I serve with Stuffed French Bread Recipe for a balanced meal?

Pair the dish with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or a light soup to balance the richness and complete your meal with a variety of textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed French Bread Recipe is truly a heartwarming, satisfying treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Its combination of savory beef, creamy filling, melted cheese, and crusty bread creates a classic everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the ease and joy it brings to your table as much as I do.

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